The cost of performing the Hajj for Tajik citizens in 2026 has been set at 53,000 somonis, nearly 4,000 somonis less than last year. In 2025, the Hajj pilgrimage cost 56,800 somonis. It is to be noted the cost of the Hajj in somoni depends largely on the exchange rate of the national currency against the US dollar. In 2022, the cost of the Hajj for Tajik Muslims was raised from 3,750 U.S. dollars to 5,350 U.S. dollars.
Afshin Muqim, a spokesperson for Tajikistan’s Committee on Religious Affairs (CRA), told Asia-Plus that in line with Saudi Arabian requirements, countries with Muslim populations began accepting applications for the 2026 Hajj season earlier than usual.
“Over the past month, pilgrims in Tajikistan have submitted the required documents and completed payments. The application process has now concluded, and pilgrims are preparing for their journey,” Muqim said.
The departure of Tajik pilgrims to Saudi Arabia is tentatively scheduled for May 2026.
“The cost of Hajj-related services for 2026 has been set at 53,000 somonis. This rate was approved in December last year, and applicants have already made payments through Orienbonk,” he added.
The CRA has also announced a competitive selection process for Hajj guides for the 2026 season. Candidates are required to have thorough knowledge of Hajj rituals, strong organizational and communication skills, and conversational proficiency in Arabic or English. Applicants must be under 60 years of age. Preference will be given to candidates, who have performed the Hajj fewer than three times, either as pilgrims or guides. Applications will be accepted until January 20.
According to the CRA, around 5,000 Tajik citizens participated in Hajj this year. Saudi Arabia had allocated 7,000 pilgrimage slots for Tajikistan.
Recall, Tajik authorities have introduced age restrictions for those who want to perform the Hajj. For the first time, the CRA introduced age restrictions in 2010. Only citizens aged 18 to 80 were able to perform the Hajj. In 2016, the CRA introduced new age restrictions, under which citizens under the age of 40 are no longer allowed to perform the Hajj. The new age limit of 40 was raised from the limit of 35 that was instituted in April 2015. The aim of the decision to introduce the new age restrictions is reportedly to give older people an opportunity to achieve their dream to perform the Hajj.
In 2011, the CRA designed a new Hajj uniform; men don two-piece suits, while women wear long-sleeved dresses complete with headscarves. The Tajik Hajj uniform is embroidered with the country’s symbols.
Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and becomes mandatory for Muslims once in their lifetime, provided certain conditions are met. These include being a Muslim, of sound mind, an adult, and financially and physically capable. For women, traveling with a mahram (a male guardian) is also required.
The concept of istita’ah—having the means and ability—is central to the obligation. This includes affording travel costs, being able to support one's family during the absence, and being physically fit to perform the demanding rites of Hajj. If these conditions are not met, the obligation does not apply.
